What kind of church does God use? A perfect one—or a broken one saved by grace? In this opening message from 1 Corinthians, we are confronted with a church that was deeply flawed, morally messy, divided, and struggling—yet still called "the church of God." Corinth was infamous for its wickedness, yet God declared, "I have much people in this city." That truth still speaks powerfully today. This sermon launches a series exploring lessons for the 21st-century church, beginning with a vital theme: a church made perfect by grace alone. Paul does not define the Corinthians by their failures, but by Christ's finished work. Though once idolaters, adulterers, thieves, and drunkards, they were now washed, sanctified, and justified. Grace—not performance—was their foundation. The message challenges spiritual pride, reminds us that the Christian life is a work in progress, and calls us to see the church—and sinners—as God sees them. It asks hard questions: Are we ready for conversions of people with deeply troubled lives? Do we truly believe the gospel can transform the worst of sinners? If you need encouragement, humility, and a renewed confidence in the power of grace, this message is for you. Listen and be reminded: "Such were some of you—but God."
